Anorexia remains as one of the most well known eating disorders. Different types of the disorder cause people to react differently toward the consumption of food. In most cases, people who suffer from any sort of anorexia drastically reduce their calorie intake because they wish to maintain their self image. This constant cycle of self induced starvation often results in severe health complications.
This eating disorder has gained much attention mostly because of the amount of people it has harmed. Certain studies have shown that anorexia acts as a hereditary disease, while others show that the eating disorder stems from mental or physical abuse. In any case, anorexia and other similar eating disorders can result in health complications that can lead to stroke, heart attack and even death.
The main premise of anorexia, though, involves the perception of feeling overweight. Even though many anorexics fall to nearly 20% below their average body weight, these individuals still believe that they need to deprive themselves even more.
When our bodies do not receive a balance of required nutrients, we struggle to carry out simple and complex functions. The simplest vitamins and minerals play crucial roles within our organs and cells, making it possible for us to live.
Any form of complete restriction on a specific nutrient or food group usually causes some sort of adverse side effect. Furthermore, completely restricting all nutrients and foods will undoubtedly disrupt the body’s normal ability to maintain and regulate important functions.
Indicators of Anorexia
If you have concerns that a loved one suffers from anorexia, multiple ways exist to spot the disorder during its early stages. Many anorexics refuse to eat in front of other people or constantly claim that they do not have any hunger. Others have a strong desire to prepare food for you or others without wanting to eat it themselves.
Many anorexics will deny claims regarding their eating habits, which causes several accusers to shy away from helping a friend or family member. However, if a person begins to suffer from anxiety, fatigue, a lack of breathing ability or weak skin, you ought to contact a medical professional or take the initiative to help the person.
One type of anorexia exclusively involves the act of restricting the consumption of food. This starvation method prevents the body from functioning correctly and results in a skeletal like appearance. Massive weight loss also becomes prevalent after extended periods of restrictive anorexia.
Another major sub category of anorexia involves binge eating combined with purging and starvation. Much like bulimia, these anorexics go through cycles of prolonged starvation and then eat large amounts of food, only to rid themselves of the calories ingested. Purging tactics include vomiting or excessive exercise.